Born in 1898 in San Francisco, Clarence J. Thornton eventually became involved in Nevada ranch work through his father's employment by the Pyramid Land and Livestock Company. He quickly became involved in many facets of Nevada like the Farm Bureau, 4-H Clubs, Washoe County Agricultural and Industrial Fair, and the federal government during the Great Depression. In his oral history, Clarence Thornton offers important insights about Reno, Washoe County, and the state of Nevada between the wars and describes the phenomenal growth period after World War II. He explains the many decisions made in reference to state fair locations, the Reno Rodeo origins, and the construction of many public service buildings.